Mexican Stuffed Shells

An Exciting Twist on Traditional Pasta: Mexican Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a dinner idea that combines the rich, comforting feel of pasta with the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, look no further than Mexican Stuffed Shells. With seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a delightful fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines. The jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and cream cheese, then cooked in a flavorful bath of enchilada sauce and salsa. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s an irresistible meal that’s ready in under an hour!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Frying pan for cooking beef
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Cutting board or baking sheet

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 packet of low sodium taco seasoning
• 4 ounces of cream cheese
• 16 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 1/2 cups salsa
• 1 cup taco sauce
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Monterrey Jack cheese
• For trimmings:
• 3 green onions
• Sour cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a frying pan, brown the ground beef and add the taco seasoning, preparing according to the package instructions. Add the cream cheese, cover, and simmer until the cheese is melted. Stir well and set aside to cool completely.
3. While the beef is cooking, boil the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them and place individually on a cutting board or baking sheet to prevent sticking.
4. Pour the salsa into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each shell with 1-2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and place them in the dish, open side up.
5. Cover the shells evenly with taco sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, add the grated cheese, and bake for another 10-15 minutes. Garnish with green onions or olives if desired. Serve with sour cream and/or more salsa!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the pasta shells are cooked to al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Let the meat mixture cool slightly before stuffing the shells to make handling easier.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Feel free to substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories, fat, protein, and more will vary based on specific brands and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake as directed.

Can I freeze Mexican Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Freeze before baking, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before following the baking instructions.

Conclusion

Mexican Stuffed Shells are a delightful way to spice up your dinner routine. With its comforting textures and bold flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any fun twists you added!